Most of us aren’t psychics, so we need feedback to know how well we’re doing. Sometimes the feedback is as personalized as a progress report or as simple as a blank stare when we’re explaining something.

Insight has many names, but it’s most commonly known as data. “Collecting data” can sound formal and scary, but we naturally collect and interpret data every day. Educators that participate in data-focused programs work to engage students and fulfill educational goals.

In this Getting Smart article guest-authored by BloomBoard CEO, Jason Lange, he explains why data analysis can be challenging and how educators can use data collection to improve their teaching styles.